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The Melbourne to Launceston race is a 198 nm long course and will start on the 27th of December. As well as being the world's fifth oldest sailing competition, it isalso Australia's oldest ocean yacht race by a fair margin, making it commonly known as the Grand Old Dame of Australian's Racing.

It was first run in 1907 and then sporadically frequented each decade until the 1960's, when it became an annual feature. It is a perfect race for any crew who do not want the Christmas racing season to intrude on their social calendar and need enough time before New Year to be back in Melbourne for the celebrations.

Participating crews will have their skills tested as they sail through the Bass Strait. For first timers it is a definite learning curve to sail through "The Paddock" as is it commonly known. This contest also requires the crew to have strong night sailing technique as well as an excellent grasp on navigation to cross one of toughest stretches of water in racing arenas. After what will be a challenging first section the participants will be rewarded with the best views of the stunning Tasmanian coastal scenery there is to offer, as they head to the finish line at Low Head where the winner will be presented with the Rudder Cup.

All entries will be equipped with a YB tracker which will transmit their position, speed and direction every 30 minutes. This means family, friends and international race enthusiast can follow the race easily via the online race tracker.

To discover more about this historic race please visit the ORCV website.